“Taking four wins in 2017, and being competitive in many other events, gives us real motivation to go one better,” says the overall runner-up for 2017.

“As a team, we keep getting stronger with each season. I feel it’s our time to shine.”

M-Sport Ford World Rally Team

With increased backing from Ford, current WRC dominator and M-Sport looks to be the strongest team heading into the 2018 season, despite being the only (technically) private ‘manufacturer’.

Its Ford Fiesta WRC cars cop a slightly tweaked Red Bull livery, though the team loses a strong driver in Tanak.

Still, 2017 WRC champ Sébastien Ogier remains the team’s lead driver, and ‘rising star’ Elfyn Evans is set to take Tanak’s place as second driver.

“We’ve enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Ford over the years and it’s great to see that support increase as we look to defend our FIA World Rally Championship titles in 2018,” says Malcolm Wilson OBE, M-Sport managing director.

“In Sébastien and Elfyn we have another strong line up and the added technical support will allow us to progress the development of the Ford Fiesta WRC.

“The competition will be closer than ever but I’m confident that, together with the support of our partners, we can produce the same high levels of performance and reliability that delivered so much success in 2017.”

Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team

Though mostly unsuccessful in recent years, Citroen’s string line-up of drivers means it shouldn’t be ruled out for some success in 2018.

Kris Meeke and Craig Breen remain the team’s main drivers, while Khalid Al Qassimi will compete in some 2018 rounds.

The strongest driver in 2017 for the team was Meeke, taking 7th place overall.

“We learned a lot during the first season with the Citroën C3 WRC and we've gathered a lot of information to help us do better in 2018. Despite a few tough moments, we managed to show our potential,” Meeke says.